Vehicle Emergency Call System (eCall) Compliance Certification: Global Regulations & EU Focus (2025 Update)

#1️⃣ Overview: Why eCall Certification Matters

The Vehicle Emergency Call System (eCall) certification ensures that vehicles equipped with automatic emergency call systems meet the mandatory safety and connectivity standards required by target markets.

As of 2025, major updates—particularly in the European Union—require the transition to Next Generation (NG) eCall, based on 4G/5G and IMS technology, supporting faster communication and richer data transmission during emergencies.

#2️⃣ Global eCall Certification Landscape (2025 Comparison)

Below is a summary of major regional certification requirements, estimated costs, and transition timelines for eCall systems in the EU, Russia, UAE, and Saudi Arabia.

Among these, the EU’s NG eCall transition is the most time-sensitive and technically demanding.

#3️⃣ EU NG eCall Certification – Core Upgrades & Requirements

The EU has officially transitioned from 2G/3G-based eCall systems to NG eCall, driven by network modernization and data integration needs.

 Technology Upgrade:

• Moves from circuit-switched (CS) to packet-switched (PS) communication over 4G/5G and IMS.

• Enables richer data sets — video, vehicle diagnostics, crash impact info.

 Positioning Accuracy:

• NG eCall mandates ≤ 3 meters error in dynamic driving scenarios.

 Communication & Safety Enhancements:

• Call Setup Time: Must connect to PSAP (Public Safety Answering Point) within 10 seconds.

• Power Failure Reliability: System must operate ≥10 minutes post-crash via backup battery.

• Audio Quality: Hands-free call must maintain clear and uninterrupted communication.

• Cybersecurity: Must comply with GDPR for data protection and user privacy.

#4️⃣ eCall Certification Process & Timeline (8–12 Weeks)

The EU NG eCall certification follows a 4-phase process, taking approximately 8 to 12 weeks depending on system complexity.

Step 1: Preparation (1–2 Weeks)

• Choose an EU-recognized Technical Service (e.g., KBA, UTAC, SNCH).

• Non-EU applicants must appoint an Authorized Representative (EC-REP).

• Prepare technical documentation:

  • Architecture & circuit design

  • MSD logic & privacy plan

  • English user manual (must include privacy and labeling clauses)

Step 2: Laboratory Testing (3–6 Weeks)

This is the core phase involving:

• Functional & Reliability Tests: Auto/manual trigger, MSD accuracy, vibration & temperature.

• Positioning & Call Tests: Real-time positioning ≤3m, call setup ≤10s.

• Battery & EMC Verification: Backup power ≥10 minutes; emission & immunity checks.

Test failure leads to modification & re-testing — typically adding 1–2 weeks and 50–70% extra cost.

Step 3: Field Operational Test (1–2 Weeks)

• Conducted under real-world road & network conditions.

• Validates performance consistency across mobility and network handovers.

Step 4: Review & Certification (2–3 Weeks)

• Technical Service reviews all test reports & documentation.

• Upon approval, an eCall Certificate of Compliance is issued.

• Certificate validity: 3 years (renewable).

#5️⃣ Required Technical Documentation

Before applying, ensure complete submission of the following:

1️⃣ Product Technical File:

• Circuit & architecture diagrams

• MSD logic and data flow chart

• Component specifications

2️⃣ Test Reports:

• Functional, EMC, and environmental test reports from accredited labs

3️⃣ Compliance Documents:

• GDPR-compliant privacy statement

• English user manual including eCall labeling

4️⃣ Prototype Samples:

• Typically 2–3 fully functional samples required for testing

#6️⃣ Practical Recommendations

✅ Plan for NG eCall Early – EU legacy eCall will no longer be valid after Jan 1, 2027.
✅ Perform Pre-Testing – Avoid rework by testing key parameters (positioning, call setup, power).
✅ Combine Certifications – If device includes wireless modules, integrate CE-RED testing to reduce time and cost.
✅ Maintain Version Control – Firmware or OTA updates may trigger partial re-evaluation.

#7️⃣  FAQ – Common Questions About eCall Certification

Q1: What’s the deadline for switching to NG eCall in the EU?
➡️ New approvals: from Jan 1, 2026.
➡️ Legacy systems expire: on Jan 1, 2027.

Q2: How long does the certification process take?
 Typically 8–12 weeks, depending on test success and document quality.

Q3: Can existing 2G/3G eCall systems still be sold?
 No. After 2027, only NG eCall-compliant systems are allowed.

Q4: Does Blue Asia assist with both EU and China eCall?
✅ Yes, Blue Asia supports EU NG eCall, China AECS (GB 45672-2025), and related CE-RED wireless certification.

 Partner with Blue Asia for eCall Certification Success

Blue Asia provides one-stop eCall compliance services including:

• EU NG eCall (4G/5G IMS)

• China AECS National Standard (GB 45672-2025)

• CE-RED, EMC, and environmental testing

Email: king.guo@cblueasia.com
Phone: +86 135 3422 5140

✅ Blue Asia — Your Global Compliance Partner for Smart & Safe Mobility.